Travel tips


Kili Tanzanite Safaris travel tips here help visitors to understand their destination. Our first travel tip is to explain about the adventure, and wildlife safari destinations in  Africa. Tanzania is located in East Africa between longitude, 29 degrees and 41 degrees east and latitude 1 degree and 12 degrees south. Tanzania is one of the unique destinations on the African continent that has yet to be discovered by many. It is a land of many wonders hubbing an un-paralleled diversity of fauna and flora. Kilimanjaro, the highest permanently snow-capped free standing mountain in Africa, the exotic Islands of Zanzibar, the finest game sanctuaries of Serengeti, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, Ruaha, Selous and the Marine Park of Mafia Island are only but a few of the living examples. The scenery, topography and very friendly people harbour the growth of excellent cultural tourism beach holidays, game hunting, historical and archaeological ventures – and certainly the best wildlife photographic safaris on the continent. 

If you're planning a wildlife safari or Kilimanjaro climbing adventure, it's important to book through a licensed tour operator in Tanzania. This ensures a safe and enjoyable experience, as well as supporting local businesses. Pair your safari or climb with a relaxing Zanzibar holiday for the ultimate East African adventure. Kili Tanzanite Safaris (Kili Tanzanita Caminos) is among Tanzania Tour Operator, with the excellent TripAdvisor reviews. In addition to that, our services are special to each visitor, in such a way that each Mountain climber or safari goer get individual attention. 

Tourist Attractions
Besides cultural attributes, the other tourism attractions in the country include the rich game to view in National Parks, Game Controlled Areas and Games Reserves. Just imagine viewing the famous tree climbing lions in the country's northern parks!
The Kilimanjaro National Park does feature the great ice-caped Equatorial mountain, the Kilimanjaro. The mountain invites challenge to conquer it up its peak that skyscrapes at almost 6km high to mountain climbers.

The Arusha National Park offers everything one wants to see regarding volcanic features and lakes, the flamingoes; buffaloes, the mountain vegetation and the general scenic view of the magnificent Mount Meru.

The Tarangire and Lake Manyara National Parks, though relatively smaller parks; located south west of Arusha town do offer plenty to see. Black rhinos; over 380 species of birds; the worlds largest bird the ostrich; the Kori bustard the only world heaviest bird that can fly, elephants; wart hogs, baboons, zebra, the tree-climbing lions, hot springs, and the rising steep escarpment of the Tanzania Great rift Valley are only a selection of what these areas can offer.


Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) about 828 Sq. You will be attracted by the relief, its mountains, drifting sand dunes and the diverse wildlife and the Maasai people. The NCA, due to these and more qualities including its being nearer the cradle of mankind, the Olduvai Gorge, it was declared a World Heritage Site in 1978. The only place on the planet where a human being is living in harmony with wildlife without harming one another todate the only place to go is the Ngorogoro Conservation Area. It is culture and ecotourism smoothly nurtured in the environment.

To the north west of NCA, spreads endless plain of the Serengeti National Park (14,763Sq. Km). With over 3 million large animals, involved in seasonal migration the Serengeti has the greatest concentration wildlife unparalleled in the world. The ecological rules regarding who eats who, or lonely death while swimming across rivers during migration and how it is important to be in groups for survival can be observed clearly here.

In southern Tanzania, there lies the greatest wild reserve and second only to Serengeti in wildlife concentration, this is the Selous National Park. Elephants, crocodiles and hippos in rivers; buffaloes, and baobab trees dominate.
Other National Parks include Mahale (the haven of the chimpanzees and baboons); Mikumi, Mkomazi, rubondo, Katavi and Juvenile Udzungwa rich in plant diversity and in colobus monkeys.

Again, going around and across Tanzania, one finds more interesting things. The remains from the oriental architecture found along the coast and Zanzibar, the coral reefs such as those at the Wambe Shando and Mwamba Wamba area; the sulphur springs in Tanga, the Mbozi meteorite remains. The National Museum and other heritage sites add on more interesting sites to visit.


Safety

Tanzanians are well known for their friendly, laid-back attitude. In most cases you will be humbled by their hospitality despite the fact that most people are a lot poorer than you. As you travel in the touristy areas, you will probably attract your fair share of souvenir hawkers and beggars. Remember that these are poor people who are trying to earn money to feed their families. If you aren't interested then say so, but try and remain polite. 

Basic Safety Rules for Travelers to Tanzania
• Make a copy of your passport and keep it in your luggage. 
• Don't walk on your own at night in the major cities or on empty beaches especially in Pemba and Zanzibar. 
• Don't wear jewelry. 
• Don't carry too much cash with you. 
• Wear a money belt that fits under your clothes. 
• Don't carry a lot of camera equipment especially in the major cities. 
• Beware of thieves posing as police officers.
Safety on Roads:

When driving in Africa there are a few simple rules, drive carefully and slowly (speed kills), remember animals and humans can cross the road at any time (quite often just in front of you), try never to drive at night, stay alert as roads are often poorly maintained and pot holes are to be found. Another fairly common occurrence are vehicles with missing headlights. Always wear you seat belts. If you are renting a car, keep the doors and windows locked while driving in the major cities. Car-jacking occurs fairly regularly but may not end in violence as long as you comply with demands made.


Safety on Safari:

Always listen to your guide!

When visiting wildlife areas do not walk into the bush without your guide!

Do not approach any wild animals: It is dangerous!

Do not swim in any rivers (presence of crocodiles and hippo's)!

Never feed any animals, however inquisitive they may appear to be!

How to get in to Tanzania;
Several major Airlines get into Tanzania; KLM (Royal Dutch Airlines),Condor Airlines and Ethiopian Airways get into lands at Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA/JRO) and Dar es salaam International Airport (JNIA) daily. British Airways and Swiss Airlines lands at DIA at least twice a week. Other Airlines are South African Airlines (SAA), Emirates, Edelweiss Air,Oman Air, Qatar Airways, and Kenya Airways.

We have domestic flights network covering all tourists’ destinations in East Africa.Air Tanzania, Precision Air, Zan Air, Coastal Aviation, Regional Air and other small charters.

Hint: Have you heard of Tanzanite Gemstone/jewel? Undoubtfuly you have heard. Tanzanite is a famous and most beautiful blue gemstone found in one place and only in Tanzania. Tanzanite jewel is found sold many places in most countries in the World. When a Traveler get chance to visit Tanzania is high time you have a good luck to purchase Tanzanite in relatively low prices. Just consult your Tour Operator to help you find registered Gemstone Dealers or Jewel Agents.


Immigration: 
An onward ticket and sufficient funds are required when entering Tanzania. Visas required by all visitors except citizens of the Commonwealth, Scandinavian countries and the Republic of Ireland. It is very easy to get a visa at any Tanzanian embassy abroad. The visa fee depends on the type of passport held. A visitor’s pass is required for all travelers. This can be obtained free from any Tanzanian diplomatic mission or point of entry. It is advisable to get one before you leave home.

When to Visit; Tanzania has a Tropical climate. The central plateau is dry and arid with hot days and cool nights, while the north-west highlands are cool and temperate. June to September is the cooler season. There is no winter here. Temperatures in northern Tanzania range between 60 – 70 degree Fahrenheit during the day and 40 -50 degree Fahrenheit at night from May to October.

From November to March, the day –time temperatures varies from70-90 degree Fahrenheit and from 60 – 75 degree Fahrenheit at night.The ‘long rains’ are from March to May and the ‘short rains’ are between October and December. The hottest months are between October and February. On the coast, it rains in November and December. From March to May, Coastal areas are hot and humid although sea breezes cool the area pleasantly between June and September.

Safari Dress; in wildlife lodges and country hotels, the emphasis is on comfort and informality. For ladies light, easy to wash, drip –dry blouses, skirts dresses, light khaki trousers and bush jackets go well. For evenings, light dresses or trouser suits are suitable. For men, drip –dry casual shirts, short khaki trousers and bush jackets are ideal. Evening attire in towns can consist of light suits or long sleeved shirt and tie.Bright colours should be avoided while viewing wildlife. Visitors to Ngorongoro are advised to carry a pullover as it can be chilly after sunset. A bush hat or a scarf for protection against the sun and dust is a must. It is very useful to carry a pair of sunglasses, insect repellent, suntan lotion and a flashlight.

Photographing; It is advisable to ask a permission before photographic any event relating to certain tribes like Maasai, Hadzables, Datoga. These tribes are very conservative and have maintained their original traditional customs. They still do primitive pastoralism, wild fruits gathering and wearing local made materials covering part or half of body. Some Government Institutions and Organizations don’t allow any photographic action to them or near to them. These are Military Camps and Bank of Tanzania just for security purpose. When on the road and hear traffic hail don’t continue driving or walking, if you have the car park aside or if walking step aside. This is the signal that the top Government Leader is passing like President, Vice President and Prime Minister.

Health: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is essential if arriving from yellow fever infected areas. Anti-malaria tablets are recommended. Take prescribed drugs a few days prior to arrival, during your stay, and for a short period after returning. Boil or sterilize drinking water and milk. Cook or peel vegetables. Private health insurance is recommended.

Currency; There is no restriction on the importation of foreign currency. Foreign currency can be changed at the bureau de change which offer better rate than the banks. Insurance; you are strongly advised to have your own insurance cover to cover baggage, personal accident and medical expenses.

Tipping; Tipping is not obligatory.

Tipping is at the discretion of the visitor and the following should only be used a guideline.


Driver Safari Guide; US $ 15.00 per day. 
Mountain climb Guide; US $ 15.00 per day.

For outstanding personal service, you may decide to give a higher tip.

Helpful travel tips; Tanzanians are generally very friendly people. We would like you enjoy your stay in this country therefore :

i) Don’t change money in the streets even if you are given a good rate as you might be cheated. Go to bureau change.

i) Don’t go to too cheaper Tour Operator the services might be too disappointing or vehicles used can broke in the middle of safari, or poor accommodation or any mishap pens like any cheating. Just try to compare prices, and choose, accept the standard prices.

iii) Always ride in registered taxis

iv) Don’t take fastest buses.

v) Never walk unaccompanied at night in poorly –lit streets or along deserted streets.

vi) When shopping in streets bazaars, always bargain. However some prices e.g in restaurants are fixed and you might be mistaken for miser if you start bargaining.

vii- Always choose a guest house or lodge that has a working telephone. I hope above information will give you hint on how to ask specific questions

Have specific question or want to ask for safari package or Kilimanjaro climbing price? 


Contact: info@kili-tanzanitesafaris.com





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